An Garda Síochána is issuing a renewed warning to the public about the persistent and growing threat of investment fraud, which continues to be a major area of criminal activity across Ireland. While overall reports of investment fraud have remained consistent with 2024 levels, a concerning 21% increase has been recorded in the past three months alone, with large sums of money reported stolen. Reported Losses from Investment Fraud (2021–2025) Year Amount Reported Stolen • 2021: €14,000,000 • 2022: €11,218,970 • 2023: €29,458,692 • 2024: €30,984,994 • 2025 (to end of July): €8,576,494 The majority of victims between 2020 and 2024 were middle-aged to elderly individuals, highlighting the need for increased awareness and vigilance among vulnerable demographics. Emerging Trends and Modus Operandi An Garda Síochána, in collaboration with financial industry partners, has observed a marked rise in bogus investment adverts appearing across popular online platforms. These scams typically promote fake "bond” or "deposit” products using convincing documentation and branding. Key tactics include: • Professional-looking online adverts linked to reputable European financial institutions. • Short-lived ad campaigns designed to evade detection. • Fake websites prompting users to leave contact details. • Follow-up contact by phone or email from individuals posing as investment advisers. • Use of real product identifiers (e.g., bond ISINs) to appear legitimate. • Claims of regulatory oversight without verifiable credentials. • Paid press notices or articles used to lend false credibility. Victims are often asked to submit personal identification and transfer funds to accounts controlled by criminals. Communication is typically polite and professional, with mild urgency to act quickly. Once funds are transferred, victims lose access to both their money and the supposed investment. Warning Signs to Watch Out For: • Unsolicited investment offers, especially via online adverts. • Claims of exclusive access to financial products. • Verification requests using genuine but unrelated documentation. • Contact details that don’t match official channels. • Pressure to act quickly or limited-time offers. • Requests to send funds to accounts outside Ireland. Advice to the Public: • Be cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities. • Independently verify firms via official regulatory registers. • Use the Central Bank’s SAFE test https://www.centralbank.ie/consumer-hub/explainers/how-can-i-avoid-a-financial-services-scam • Check the Central Bank Registers to confirm authorisation. Central Bank Registers here: https://registers.centralbank.ie • Never share personal or banking details with unknown individuals or companies. • Seek independent financial advice before investing. • If you suspect fraud, cease contact immediately and report the matter to Gardaí. • Trust your instincts—if something feels off, stop and investigate. Remember: If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. For further information or to report suspected investment fraud, please contact your local Garda station or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111. | 